"Every Tear a Waterfall"

Today felt like such an unproductive day. If anything, it was a day of giving, not of receiving or of personal stride-taking. I led a hike that ended up being just one person (already quite a financial groan, as this is a commission based job- but the money's not really that important) and it's always a bit more awkward to lead a personal hike with a random stranger than with an entire group. We hiked up Manoa Falls, and when we reached the waterfall, my hiker started to cry. She was apparently so moved by the beauty of the nature and was reminded of her recently (7 years) deceased mother. On the way back down my job description switched from hiking guide to therapist. And that's totally fine, I enjoy comforting people, but it's quite an emotional drain to be out in the woods with a random stranger who's paying you to lead them along the trail, and have to come up with sincerities and condolences. So for the hour's hike down I was pouring out all the wisdoms I had in me, and listened to her stories of her mother's spirit reincarnated as a butterfly... It was amazing and fascinating to be in such a situation, and it felt good to support this woman, but it was draining. Physically and emotionally. And it was technically unpaid work. Then I hit terrible Waikiki +rush-hour traffic and practically crawled over my doorstep when I got home. I feel kind of terrible right now, even though the woman was really appreciative and kind and grateful to have had me as her guide. Somehow I don't feel like I did anything today.